preparing for the first day home"school".

Yes we decided to homeschool our children. Some of you are a little skeptical of that type of schooling. But as a family we know this is what's best for our children. And we respect all types of school. Of course we'll take it one year at a time. And each child at a time as well. Just for fun, and maybe to encourage others who have made the same decision, I did a little question and answer time as we approach our first day. Ashlyn is a very young first grader, but for record keeping purposes we are calling it first grade. She may be in first grade in the public school system or not, who knows. One reason homeschool is perfect for her/us.

When are we starting?: My plan is Sept 1st. But that just means that's the day/week we start looking at curriculum and getting use to our new normal. Looking forward to making the first day fun, and not stressful. I may get picture crazy! ;)

What are my feelings/emotions as the first day approaches?: Oh so many. I'm feeling anxious, excited, crazy, ill prepared, thankful, & blessed. And oh this was not MY plan. But God's plan for us. Sometimes I really struggling with that. But I am so thankful for a super supportive husband, who is walking this journey with me. Just so you don't think I have it all together and know exactly what I'm doing, I really don't. And I really am struggling with being THE person to teach my kids thus far, with not much outside help. Again, I am thankful for my husband who is helping walk beside me. But prayer is appreciated, because as other moms who homeschool know, there is a huge responsibly on the mom, being the one who is home most of the time. And I thank the Lord for walking beside me ALL the time. I've printed a good amount of verses to plaster all over my home to help keep me grounded, and remember why we do this. And that I can do this. With HIS strength.

How old are our kids?: Skylar:15 months. (eat, sleep, poop, play-repeat!) Carter: 4 years old. (K4)  Ashlyn: 6 years old. (K/First grade - depending on the subject)

What curriculum will we use?: Math U See (Primer) - I bought Carter a Student book as well. And we have twice the blocks. (The blocks are what attracted us to this program)

IEW primary (reading/spelling/writing) - We got Carter The Phonics Farm chart if he wants to join her.

Get Wisdom! (Christian Character) - Both kids will be doing this book with Josh.

We are  also using various books in our library as well as our local town library. And I enjoy what's on pinterest and using free printables/worksheets. I'm going to start a little unit on time starting in Sept, and got this cute little clock to help her learn that. We'll be doing various electives through the year for example...a money unit, health/safety, & science.

What other outside the home activities will they do?: We go to church on Sundays and the kids are involved in Sunday School and Ashlyn comes in with us to the service after her class. We may be involved in Awana at our church one night a week. Also we are thinking about trying our Gymnastics or some other activity. We really want our kids to try an instrument. Josh may start to introduce Ashlyn to piano. And we try to get together with other moms and do play dates and field trips. Nothing is set in stone, but we have plenty to work with =)

Where will we teach them?: Most of the writing will be done on the kitchen table and the reading will be done in the living room. Love that they can so school anywhere that we are comfortable. As well as the comfort of my bed. I love sitting on it with the kids, so that may be a nice place to teach and learn.

How will we teach with a toddler?: Ha, not really sure. But for now she takes morning naps, so I will take advantage of the quiet hour or so. And we may have to do some school during afternoon naps when I get one on one with Ashlyn. My most favorite time of the day.

She already wants to do school apparently, (enter crazy face!)

When will we teach them during the day?: I answered that above I suppose. We will also be teaching them in the evenings when Josh is home and of course reading books before bed is all apart of them learning.

What will Josh's role be?: He will help with any unfinished school work at the end of the day as well as teaching the kids Christian Character (Get Wisdom!) as well as helping them with their WOL Quiet Time. And bible verse memorization may be included in all that. (Awana and other verses) He is also my rock, and will keep me grounded. So blessed to have such a supportive husband. Before you think we have it all perfectly worked out. We don't. Josh works crazy hours. So some weeks will be different and he'll be traveling or working late, and others we'll see lots of him. No matter what he is going to be very present in their education. =)

Thanks for taking the time to read this. If you are starting out as well. Let me know. Any advice? Prayers would be great. Can I also pray for you? Let me know. We're all in this together. =)

Melissa